The importance of preparing ourselves for emergencies is universal. Disasters, illnesses, and other emergencies can happen to anyone regardless of age, location, or status in life.
With that said, it is the best idea to learn basic first aid and emergency protocols. Having the right skills and knowledge will ensure that you can respond quickly and appropriately in case of an emergency. These situations can strike out anytime, anywhere, and we will never know when a situation will arise that will demand quick thinking, calm nerves, and a little bit of first aid know-how.
While natural disasters and health emergencies cannot always be avoided, we can actually prepare for them. Here are 4 steps you can do to be emergency ready, Prepared by First Aid Pro.
Injury Prevention
The famous line ‘prevention is better than cure’ is also applicable to this situation. It is far better to take preventative measures than trying to mend the problem afterward. The best step you can take towards injury prevention is education. Take time to learn the potential risks, hazards, and other most common emergencies that could affect you and those who are near you. Research about different types of natural disasters and which of those can most likely happen in your area. Nothing beats being informed when it comes to prevention.
Take Emergency Action Steps
A clear action plan is a good way to streamline your responses during an emergency. Consider different types of emergencies such as a house fire, a hurricane, or unexpected injury. Create an emergency action plan for each of those and break down your plan into steps – before, during, and after. Establish an emergency communication plan and have an emergency supply ready (water, food, and medications).
Have a complete first aid kit ready.
In any type of emergency, a first aid kit is a standard item to have in your home, car, and workplace. A first aid kit contains items such as bandages, gauze, scissors, and gloves. It is usually stocked with medical supplies such as antiseptic wipes, antibiotics, aspirin, and ointments. First aid kits can be tailored based on the need of the people that will use it. Keep it in a location that is accessible to the adults but out of the prying eyes of the children.
First Aid Training
During an emergency, the best thing you can do is to stay ‘cool under pressure. Panicking can only hamper your critical thinking and ability to respond quickly. Therefore, First Aid Training should be a part of your emergency preparation. A good first aid course will teach you how to be an effective first responder and will help you how to remain calm while responding to a variety of emergencies.
Sharon McCulloch is an experienced Emergency Care Registered Nurse, and First Aid Instructor. She runs her First Aid Training Organization at The First Aid Course Sydney.
